[German Version] I. Catholic Understanding – II. Protestant Understanding
I. Catholic Understanding The expression “communion of saints” (
Communio sanctorum ) is attested in the writings of Nicetas of Remesiana (
Explanatio symboli 10) as an addendum to the Apostles' Creed (DH 19) and signifies an interpretation of the concept of the church. In its very essence, the “Holy Catholic Church” is to be seen in three interwoven ¶ levels of meaning: the common participation of all the baptized in Christ's gifts of salvation; the personal unity of all in faith,…